The Biotechnology Technician Certificate provides students with an overview of the science of biotechnology, as well as the technical skills necessary for employment in the industry.

Program Overview

What Will You Learn?

Certificate

You will learn how to use of basic laboratory equipment, adhering to laboratory safety protocols and utilize scientific methodology and critical thinking to analyze and/or troubleshoot biotechnological issues.

Cost

In-State Tuition: $211/credit

Out-of-State / International Tuition: $417/credit

Some programs have additional program fees

Timeline

2 Semesters

24 credits

Learn Online

  • This program may be completed less than 50% online.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

Locations

  • This program may be completed at QCC Worcester (Main Campus).
  • This program may be completed face-to-face.

Curriculum

Biotechnology basics

Semester 1

This semester will focus on biotechnology and chemistry.

Become an Expert

Semester 2

This semester will explore cellular and molecular biology, and manufacturing safety.

See the full curriculum

Connections

The following program(s) have connections that can be completed alongside or applied to this program:

A biology lab table with various equipment
Associate in Arts

General Studies - Biotechnology Option

Biotechnology uses the knowledge of living things to improve human life. You can earn a 2-year associate degree or shorter term certificate. Graduates work in many areas, including the making of medicines, the food industry, environmental technology and many others.

Career Stats

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More Info

Course Title

Course #

Semester Offered

Credits

Prerequisites

Semester 1

  • Register for and successfully complete all courses to graduate in two semesters.
  • Meet with Academic Advisor to discuss associate degree (Program Code: GSBT); or create an account on the QCC job board to search for internships, co-ops and jobs.
Introduction to Biotechnology with Laboratory

BTT 102

F/S

4

Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21
General Chemistry I

CHM 105

F/S/SU

4

MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21
Introduction to Microcomputer Applications

CIS 111

F/S/SU

3

 
Composition I

ENG 101

F/S/SU

3

Placement into college level English
 

 

Total

14

 

Semester 2

  • Apply to associate degree (Program Code: GSBT); or if seeking employment, meet with Career Services for career readiness preparation and to learn more about QCC’s job board.
  • Submit an Intent to Graduate Form, located on The Q.
Biology II: Introduction to Cells and Molecules

BIO 107

F/S/SU

4

CHM 105 or CHM 123, ENG 101
College Algebra

MAT 100

F/S/SU

3

QMAT placement score > 32 or Coreq: MAT 097
Manufacturing Safety

MNT 100

F/S

3

Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or QMAT placement score > 21
 

 

Total

10

 
Total Credits Required:  24 

Program Goals:

The Biotechnology Technician Certificate provides students with an overview of the science of biotechnology, as well as the technical skills necessary for employment in the industry.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Explain the fundamental scientific principles in the field of biotechnology.
  • Work effectively and collaboratively in a laboratory setting, while collecting, analyzing and interpreting experimental data.
  • Demonstrate the proper use of basic laboratory equipment, adhering to laboratory safety protocols.
  • Recognize the importance of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in the field of biomanufacturing.
  • Apply mathematical principles to biotechnological concepts.
  • Demonstrate clear and effective communication skills, including written, graphic, and numerical, with emphasis on documentation.
  • Utilize scientific methodology and critical thinking to analyze and/or troubleshoot biotechnological issues.
  • Demonstrate basic working knowledge of MS Windows and the use of computer technology for data analysis.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

CORI, SORI, Fingerprinting & Drug Testing:

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

Career Outlook

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 26.1201.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.